Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will brighten up your Thanksgiving dinner, look no further than these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to the combination of tender peas, crispy turkey strips, and juicy pears. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings a festive touch to your table that everyone will love.

This dish isn’t just for Thanksgiving, either! It’s great for busy weeknights or family gatherings throughout the year. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it may just become your new go-to side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Family-Friendly: The flavor combinations are appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare some components in advance, making it easier to serve on special occasions.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of sweet pears and savory turkey strips creates a unique taste experience that is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome components that come together beautifully in this dish.

For the Dish

• ½ pound turkey strips, cut into small dice
• 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to customize it:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer chicken or even chickpeas, feel free to substitute them for the turkey strips.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Experiment with herbs: Try using fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Sweeten it up: If you like things sweeter, toss in some dried cranberries or raisins along with the peas.

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into small pieces. Tossing them with lemon juice helps prevent browning while adding a burst of freshness. Set them aside as we move on to cooking!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook until they’re golden brown. This step is crucial because browning adds depth and flavor. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Don’t forget to drain off some excess fat from the pan—keeping about three tablespoons will help sauté our shallots perfectly!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add your sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they’re softened. Adding Dijon mustard at this stage enhances their sweetness with a tangy kick—trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to stir in those beautiful peas along with your prepared pears. Cook everything together for about five minutes until the peas are warmed through. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat before adding half of your crispy turkey strips back into the pan along with the parsley and freshly ground black pepper. Stirring these in at this point keeps everything nice and fresh.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your colorful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and sprinkle some lemon zest on top for an extra pop of flavor. Now you’re ready to present this stunning dish at your Thanksgiving feast!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Creating a delicious side dish can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your Thanksgiving Peas turn out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and textures, making your dish taste even better.
• Adjust the mustard: If you prefer a milder flavor, start with half the amount of Dijon mustard. You can always add more later to suit your taste. This allows you to customize the dish to your family’s preference.
• Don’t overcook the peas: Be mindful not to overcook the peas; they should retain their vibrant green color and slight crunch. Overcooked peas can lose their appealing texture and bright flavor.
• Add a touch of sweetness: For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling a tiny bit of honey over the finished dish before serving. This enhances the natural sweetness of the pears and balances with the savory turkey.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare most of this dish ahead of time by cooking the turkey strips and shallots. Just combine everything together before serving for a quick finish!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Presentation is key when it comes to making your Thanksgiving table feel special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Lemon slices: Arrange a few lemon slices on the serving platter for an eye-catching look while also providing an option for guests who love an extra citrus kick.
• Additional parsley: A handful of finely chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory elements in your Thanksgiving Peas, creating a balanced meal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with toasted almonds add crunch and sophistication, making them a perfect companion for this vibrant side.
• Quinoa Salad with Cranberries: A light quinoa salad mixed with tart cranberries brings in additional textures and flavors while keeping things healthy.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes—they’re creamy, comforting, and provide a hearty contrast to the lighter elements in your Thanksgiving feast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests with this festive and flavorful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a great addition to your holiday planning. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the peas completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for a quick and easy side.

What can I serve with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or any main course like chicken or turkey. It’s a versatile side that complements many flavors!

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh peas can be used if they’re in season; just adjust the cooking time slightly since they may cook faster than frozen peas.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace turkey strips with plant-based protein alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not only delicious but also brings a festive flair to your dinner table. The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey strips creates a delightful harmony of flavors that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as my family does! Share your experiences and let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!